i would add touching to your list. when we do a puppy class, we start with the basic all over exam - eyes, mouth, ears, body, legs, feet. then we add hugging restraint. this is how your dogs will be restrained at the vets, they might as well get used to it. i always tell people that the dog doesn't have to like this, he only has to tolerate it. we then move on to hugs from the front, swooping hugs from the front, hugs from the rear, gentle tugs on tail, feet, & ears. i usually add one thing a week, depending on the puppies. i also tell them to hire their friends to come & help train their puppies. have a pizza party. your puppy can greet (not leap on) each person as they come in the door. your puppy can be passed from person to person for petting & gentle hugging. your puppy can play recall games all around the circle. these are all helpful in teaching your puppy to accept people handling him.
most dogs go through a period in adolescence (6-12 months usually, depending on breed & individual) they will often regress in socialization & training during this period. while not encouraging the shy behaviors, you need to support your puppy, continue with your socialization & training, & continue to build his confidence in you & people in general. it can be very discouraging, since he was so great just a few months ago, but many dogs will eventually recover. how fond they are of strangers under various circumstances will depend on the dog's basic temperament & your modifications (which only go so far) of that temperament based on socialization & training. lisa baldwin (dickens, bark & zel) seattle, wa [EMAIL PROTECTED]
